A crackdown on alcohol-fuelled disorder in pubs and bars in Whitehaven could see those responsible receive a long ban.
Offences like assault, disorder and drug crime fuelled by drink will incur a 13 month ban from licensed premises and off-licences.
Whitehaven Pubwatch said: “Exclusions run from one month to one year, with a two-year to lifetime ban for the most serious offences. As drinking habits have changed it is getting more and more difficult to manage licensed premises. Many people drink before they come out, making it tricky for licensees to gauge their level of inebriation and have a harder party attitude.
“This campaign reminds them to be vigilant and take extra care, avoiding behaving inappropriately. It also serves to advise customers that it’s in their best interests to stop if the licensee decides they’ve had enough, so we can all can have a happy Christmas.”
Sergeant David Macdonald, of Cumbria constabulary’s Copeland Neighbourhood Policing Team, responsible for licensing said: “From a policing point of view, licensing standards in Copeland are high and this campaign highlights the stance the trade are taking. Its aim is to remind individuals that ultimately people have to take responsibility for their own consumption of alcohol and behaviour.
“Christmas is meant to be a time of celebration with friends and family but unfortunately there are always a small number of people who just take it too far. This often this leads to disorder which creates stress and even injury for pub goers, pub owners, pub staff and even the police.
“I am pleased to see Pubwatch partners imposing robust but appropriate bans.”
Pubwatch is the licensed trade’s equivalent of Neighbourhood Watch and is aimed at promoting responsible drinking in a safe environment.
Over 20 premises have voluntarily signed up to Pubwatch and members hold regular meetings to discuss matters arising within their own areas.
Chairman of Whitehaven Pubwatch Jason Fisher said: “This deals appropriately with individuals who commit trouble in pubs. “What we’re doing is aiming to make sure people can come out to enjoy a safe and enjoyable night and that we as licensees will not tolerate such behaviour in our establishments.”
“This gives a real consequence for those who choose to behave inappropriately. It means those causing trouble face a ban that impacts on them for both this Christmas and next. The Whitehaven Pubwatch scheme is dedicated and keen to ensure people see the town as a safe place to socialise.”
